Bing's main disadvantage is its smaller index and user base: for local, niche or non-English searches its results can be thinner than Google's. It also has a busy homepage, pushes Microsoft products, and, like Google, records your searches unless you change the settings.
1. Less complete results for some searches
With about 4.5% of searches worldwide (StatCounter, August 2026) versus Google's 91%, Bing sees less data about what people want. Small businesses, very recent news and less common languages can be covered less thoroughly.
2. Local search varies by country
Maps, business listings and reviews are strong in the US and some markets, but patchier elsewhere.
3. A crowded homepage
News, weather, shopping and MSN content can make the homepage feel cluttered. You can hide much of it from the ☰ menu's homepage settings.
4. Heavy Microsoft promotion
Expect prompts to use Edge, sign in with a Microsoft account or try Copilot. They're easy to dismiss, but they don't stop.
5. Privacy trade-offs
Bing saves your searches to your account and uses data for ads unless you opt out, and it has no automatic deletion. You can turn history off and delete it, but you have to do it yourself.
6. AI answers can be wrong
Copilot and AI summaries are convenient but sometimes get things wrong. Check the cited sources for anything important.
What people get wrong about Bing
- “Bing isn't available everywhere.” It works worldwide, though some features (like Rewards) are limited to certain countries.
- “Bing has no voice search.” It does, on the web and in the app.
- “Bing uses Google's results.” It has its own index.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bing worse than Google?
For most everyday searches the difference is small. Google usually wins for niche and local queries; Bing is strong for images, video and Rewards.
Is Bing safe to use?
Yes. It's run by Microsoft and uses HTTPS. As with any engine, be careful which results you click. See can Bing track you.